Marketing at University of Phoenix-California

University of Phoenix's online marketing certificate produces surprisingly strong early earnings at $63,549—ranking in the 95th percentile nationally among similar programs. While the California comparison is more modest (60th percentile), this is still well above what most certificate programs deliver, and the $22,060 in median debt translates to a manageable 0.35 debt-to-earnings ratio. You're looking at roughly four months of gross salary to cover the debt load, which is extremely reasonable for any credential.

The catch is what certificate programs typically represent: a quick credential rather than a traditional four-year degree. With only five California schools offering comparable marketing certificates, this is a niche pathway, likely appealing to working adults seeking to upskill rather than high school graduates. The moderate sample size suggests steady but not massive enrollment, and only 24% of students receive Pell grants, indicating this draws a less economically disadvantaged population than many for-profit programs.

For a parent whose child needs marketing credentials fast—perhaps to complement an existing degree or break into the field quickly—these numbers work. The debt is low enough that even if career plans shift, it won't become an anchor. Just understand you're comparing this to other certificate programs, not bachelor's degrees in marketing, which typically command higher long-term earnings.